The first group makes any pH starting from three seem excessive, while emphasising their fluidity with fine, thread-like bubbles. The second group pushes the acidity limits, reminding us of the hedonistic properties of sugars.
However, their differences end there. On one hand, both are highly demanding and costly to produce; on the other, they can evoke sensations unknown to most "regular" wines, making the heart race far more intensely than the mind.
The Afros & Nectar 2024 exhibition organised by Vinetum left no doubt about the matter, providing every wine enthusiast with the opportunity to taste some of the finest local representatives of both styles. Of course, in the case of sparkling wines, traditionally crafted cuvées reign supreme, boasting exceptional aromatic complexity and lasting flavour. Meanwhile, the brilliant Greek sun has contributed to the character of sweet varieties, resulting in delightful sweetness in even the more affordable price ranges.
So, then, here is a curated selection of twelve wines that beautifully combines heaven and hell in a single case!
The sparkling
Karaníka, Cuvée Prestige 2016: This benchmark winery in sparkling wine production raises the bar once again with this aged release of its Assyrtiko/Xinomavro blend. It presents nutty, bready, and resinous notes, showcasing incredible consistency between the nose and palate, culminating in a delightful bittersweet finish reminiscent of citrus peels. (9/10)
Karaníka, Cuvée Prestige 2014: The varietal composition, partial fermentation in barrels, and extra brut dosage remain unchanged compared to the 2016 vintage. However, the additional two years this exceptional sparkling wine from Amyntaio has spent in the bottle have infused it with aromatic explosiveness alongside impressive length. (9/10)
Kir Yianni, Scaperdas Freres Rose NV: he terroir of Amyntaio is uniquely suited for producing both sparkling and rosé wines. This Xinomavro, which undergoes its primary fermentation in barrels, strikes a perfect balance by combining aromas of corn and pasta with notes of strawberry sweetness and noteworthy length. (8/10)
Lazaridis Kostas Estate, Blanc de Blanc 2021: With the 2021 vintage, this top winery in Drama further refines its Vidiano from the extremely mountainous vineyards of Nevrokopi. Although it has spent three years on the lees, it exhibits a subtle complexity, beautifully crafted with remarkable duration and velvety elegance. (8.5/10)
Milia Riza, The Experiential 2020: This opulent cuvée comes from the Nemea producer known exclusively for sparkling wines, with its base wine having undergone fermentation in barrels. The combination of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay works harmoniously, resulting in an exquisite biscuity character that is tantalizingly velvety and dynamically delicate. (8.5/10)
Nicolou, Botanic NV: Is this a sparkling Retsina among the domestic giants of its kind? Yes, and rightly so, as the 24 months spent on the lees and the superb acidity have imparted delicate elegance and good length to this Savatiano. Additionally, the expressive nose leaves no doubt about the producer`s resinous intentions! (8/10)
The sweets
Vrynioti, G 2023: Although it is made from the rare red variety Vradyano, this sweet wine surprisingly has a color that flirts with orange! The aromas of liquid cola enhance its "white" character, yet the tasting structure and flavors of red fruits are distinctly... red! (8/10)
Idea Wine, Liatiko Glyko 2013. This wine is a world-class example of PDO Dafnes. The sun-drying of the Liatico grapes, four years of maturation in barrels, and extended bottle aging craft a masterpiece of concentration with remarkable length, a smoky character, and an endless velvety finish. (9.5/10)
Cavino, Moscato Samos NV: The prominent winery from Aigio presents a PDO Samos from the mountainous regions of the island, filling the glass with aromas of mint. This Vin Doux Naturel impresses not only with its incredible price (€7.50 for 750ml!) but also with its excellent acidity, which perfectly balances the 160 g/L of sugars. (8/10)
Lazaridis Kostas Estate, Experimental Sweet 2022: Kosta Lazarídi Estate offers us a sweet wine, even in an experimental form, that stays true to the high standards we have come to expect! This overripe Sauvignon Blanc showcases explosive Semillon aromas and the acidic lightness of Riesling! +5 years. (8.5/10)
Limnos Organic Wines, Vin Doux 2023: The Savvoglou-Tsivolas winery also has a premium label, but this PDO Muscat of Limnos won me over with its intense mint and spearmint notes, light balance, and good acidity. Sure, the finish is slightly alcoholic, but on the bright side, the price is only 9€! (7,5/10)
Samos Wines The Muscat Artisans, Samos Solera NV: Let’s not delve into the complex aging process of this PDO cuvée from Samos. Instead, let’s enjoy its rich aromas of caramel and sweet walnut, and its palatable length, which is enhanced by abundant acidity and pronounced tannins. (8.5/10)
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